Ted Cruz gets seven-minute standing ovations and a hero's welcome at even relatively moderate gatherings. Even here in Wisconsin, the birthplace of Progressivism, Ted Cruz's filibuster got a resounding reception from people in restaurants and bars all over the place. I can't see how that makes him "hated" by anybody but Establishment Republicans, which I imagine most grassroots conservatives would take as a badge of honor. How are Cruz's social positions any different than Rand's? Both firmly believe that marriage is the province of the states, that all life is sacred, and that business owners should not be forced to violate basic religious beliefs. I'm a "Values Voter" who happens to like the Pauls. There's room for all of us here.
Rand was not well-liked among many of his colleagues at first. Remember McCain disparaging us as "wacko birds?" Or his infamous "Tea Party Hobbits" remark? McConnell fought Rand tooth and claw when he first ran. And with folks like Sean Duffy and Steve King denouncing Cruz in no uncertain terms - along with David Brooks and the rest of the Republican Establishment - I don't feel like this guy is our enemy. Judge Napolitano, the John Birch Society, Pat Buchanan, and other friends of liberty have praised the man. Some people expend more energy on these forums railing against Ted Cruz than they do John Boehner and Mitch McConnell. These people are the real enemies of freedom. Our focus should remain on them.
